NCHC MISSION & PURPOSE

Statement of Purpose

The North Carolina Horse Council exists to represent and further the common interest of the entire equine industry of North Carolina. The North Carolina Horse Council is composed of volunteer individuals and groups from all breeds and types of horse activities, without bias. We are amateurs and professionals, horse hobbyist, commercial producers, local riding clubs, and larger corporations.

The North Carolina Horse Council strives to maintain effective government relations by interacting with state leaders and our government representatives. We work closely with the N.C. Department of Agriculture, NC Farm Bureau and N.C. State University.

Mission Statement

To serve as the voice of the North Carolina horse community through education, communication and representation.

Goals and Objectives

Develops and implement a comprehensive marketing and promotion program for the horse community.

Expand and strengthen legislative presence.

Promote the North Carolina Horse Council through communication with involvement of all primary stakeholders.

Enhance and increase education programs.

Improve the business and regulatory environment for the horse industry.

Facts About the North Carolina Horse Industry

Total annual economic impact: $1.9 billion

Federal, state and local taxes paid: $195 million

Equine-owning households or operations: 53,095

Acreage in equine operations: 2.1 million

Average number equine per operation: 5.8

Total number of equine: 306,210

Total number of jobs: 19,183

Expenditures on goods and services: $1.4 billion

Expenditures within home county: 72%

Expenditures within state: 90%

In 1955 there were 61,000 horses in North Carolina. Today that number has more than tripled to an estimated 306,210. The horse industry in North Carolina is valued at almost $2 billion annually.
There are four major Horse Complexes (Raleigh, Asheville, Williamston, and Lumberton) that host horse events all year. Horse projects are the leading special interest projects in the N.C. 4-H program. All major breeds are represented in North Carolina and many boast of National and World Champions.
We are home to miles of public land and accessible private trails. The NCHC works in conjunction with the NC Back Country Horsemen of America to maintain and grow our trail systems. We host a statewide trail horse challenge and encourage young people to become involved with horses by promoting equine activities throughout the state.